Nottingham, As Team India gears up for a five-match T20I series against England, vice-captain Smriti Mandhana has highlighted the tour’s importance, calling it a timely preparation for next year’s ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, which is also scheduled to be held in the UK.
Mandhana, speaking ahead of the opener, said the team is treating the series as more than just a bilateral contest. “With the World Cup less than a year away and being held in similar conditions, this tour is the perfect build-up for us,” she said.
The Indian squad arrived in England well in advance, following an intensive training camp at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru. According to Mandhana, the idea was to get players acclimatised to English conditions, especially for those touring the country for the first time.
“We landed early and had a few solid practice games, which really helped. For youngsters experiencing England for the first time, this exposure is vital,” she added.
The series also marks the comeback of opening batter Shafali Verma, who returns after a stellar domestic season. Mandhana expressed her excitement about partnering with Verma again at the top of the order. “Shafali’s been working really hard. She’s earned her place back, and I’m thrilled to open with her again.”
India is set to play five T20Is against England, with the first match scheduled for June 29. The tour also includes a three-match ODI series. With the World Cup fast approaching, the team is expected to experiment with combinations and give younger players international exposure.
